Implants and methods for mastopexy

ABSTRACT

A mastopexy implant for maintaining the breast in an elevated and aesthetically pleasing position includes a lower pole support comprising end portions which may be affixed to the chest wall or to a previously installed upper suspension strut. The implant is loaded in an insertion device. The insertion device is inserted through a small incision and into a subcutaneous pocket created in an inferior half of the breast. The lower pole support may have various constructs and in one embodiment includes a unitary conformable mesh having a plurality of arm or band members which are attached across the breast parenchyma and to the chest wall.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 16/362,090,filed Mar. 22, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No.15/428,268, filed Feb. 9, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,258,460, which is acontinuation of U.S. Ser. No. 14/830,685, filed Aug. 19, 2015, now U.S.Pat. No. 9,585,744, which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 14/249,155,filed Apr. 9, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,277,986, which is a continuationof U.S. Ser. No. 13/413,770, filed on Mar. 7, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No.8,858,629, and claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 61/451,103, filed Mar.9, 2011, and US. Ser. No. 61/604,242, filed Feb. 28, 2012, all of whichare incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF APPLICATION

This application relates generally to systems and methods for mastopexyand breast lift.

BACKGROUND

Breast ptosis involves an inferior displacement or sagging of breastparenchyma accompanied by an inferior displacement of the nipple-areolarcomplex (NAC) with respect to the inframammary fold (IMF). Breast ptosismay be found in patients with normal breast size, with relatively smallbreast size (hypoplasia) or with enlarged breast size (hypertrophy). Thecombination of ptosis and hypoplasia may be found in the post-partumbreast, as the relative breast enlargement of pregnancy and lactationrecedes, leaving behind a stretched skin envelope that contains theinvoluted parenchyma. Hypertrophic breasts typically include somecomponent of breast ptosis in addition to enlarged size.

Breast ptosis is categorized according to the position of the NACrelative to the IMF and relative to the lower pole of breast tissue.Grade 1 ptosis is considered mild, with the nipple just below the IMFbut still above the lower pole. Grade 2 ptosis is considered moderate,with the nipple further below the IMF, but with some lower pole tissuebelow the nipple. Grade 3, severe ptosis, has the nipple well below theIMF, and no lower pole tissue below the nipple. Pseudoptosis, observedwith postpartum breast atrophy, includes inferior pole ptosis, with thenipple positioned at or above the IMF.

Mastopexy is a surgical procedure performed to correct breast ptosis.Its goals are to restore the normal contour of the breast mound and toreposition the NAC. To achieve this goal, the excess breast skin isremoved or tightened, the parenchymal volume is augmented or reduced asneeded, and the NAC is repositioned. The choice of technique is based onthe desired final breast size and the degree of ptosis. For minimalptosis and breast hypoplasia, breast augmentation is sometimes employedin lieu of mastopexy even though it involves the use of a siliconeimplant. Breast augmentation involves the placement of a breast implantunderneath the breast parenchyma, usually through an inframammary foldincision. The implant pushes the parenchyma up and out for a less ptoticand larger appearance. The projection is much more pronounced when theimplants are placed in the subglandular position compared to thesubmuscular position.

When more ptosis correction is required, the traditional mastopexyemploys NAC repositioning and/or skin resection. A variety of skinincisions may be used, each leaving its own characteristic scar patternafter healing. Skin incisions include the wise or anchor pattern, thecircumareolar incision, and the periareolar incision.

Because it is a voluntary, cosmetic procedure, avoiding or minimizingskin incisions adds to the challenge of mastopexy surgery. Mastopexysurgery has traditionally been accompanied by considerable scarring. Theextensive scars of the Wise pattern mastopexy, for example, may benecessary if major repositioning and resection is performed, but theyrepresent a significant drawback to the procedure. Though endoscopictechniques have been devised for mastopexy procedures, open surgery isrequired in many cases to move the nipple, remove excess tissue, orrecontour the breast mound. Even if the “anchor” scars of the Wisepattern can be avoided, other open mastopexy techniques still createvisible scars on the breast.

The crescent, or periareolar incision may provide for the leastnoticeable scars; however, serious areola stretching or tissue necrosisis a not infrequent problem as all of the newly lifted parenchymalweight is supported by suture around the areola.

With traditional mastopexy procedures, the tightened skin envelopeprovides the main support for the lifted breast. Breast implants can beused to fill out the breast contour superiorly, this procedure is termedthe augmentation-mastopexy. The augmentation-mastopexy procedure hashigher risk of morbidity and twice the number of scars.

Breast flap repositioning can also be used to fill out the superiorcontour of the breast; however, this type of breast mound repositioningis a significantly more invasive and complex procedure that involvestransposing lower pole tissue bulk and moving it superiorly and securingit to a deeper and higher tissue plane.

Irrespective of the type of mastopexy procedure performed, it isstandard procedure that the tightened skin remains the primary supportused to keep the breast mound elevated. As the lower pole skin stretchesover time as it did in the first instance, ptosis can recur orpseudoptosis (“bottoming out”) can take place. Placement of a breastimplant leads to additional weight upon the skin of the lower pole,possibly leading to more rapid skin expansion and recurrent ptosis.

For retaining an upright configuration to the lifted breast and avoidingthe post-operative sequelae of recurrent ptosis or pseudoptosis, or“bottoming out”, certain authors have advocated the use of permanentprosthetics such as polypropylene mesh or silicone sheeting to reinforcethe lower pole (see, for example, the Orbix breast lifting kitmanufactured by Orbix Medical, Tel Aviv, Israel) or wrap the entireparenchyma (see, for example, the Breform™ device, manufactured byAspide Medical, St. Etienne, France). Concerns about leaving foreignbodies permanently in the breast have limited the widespread adoption ofthese techniques somewhat. A permanent foreign body, according to theliterature, is prone to infection and can facilitate a chronicinflammatory reaction. Furthermore, chronic foreign body reactions areoften linked to hardening of the tissue and capsular contracture in thesame manner as that associated with breast implants. Moreover, apermanent foreign body can interfere with breast cancer surveillance andcan distort tissue planes if an oncological procedure is required.

Various permanent sheets such as polypropylene or polyester meshes havebeen wrapped around the parenchyma (see, for example, the Breform™device, manufactured by Aspide Medical, St. Etienne, France), but lackan anchoring element that removes load from the skin of the lower pole,thus subjecting the wrapped breast not only to the potential chronicinflammatory response but also to the same ptotic forces as beforesurgery. Permanent silicone sheets have also been used to cradle thelower pole, which is then suspended from screws in the ribcage, placingall of the load force on one or two fixation points high above thenipple. Additionally, various minimally invasive mastopexy proceduresare described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,372 to Orbix and Patent PublicationNo. 2008/0027273 to Gutterman.

More recently, allograft or xenograft products have been proposed assuitable to provide extra support for breast tissue or breast implantsduring post-mastectomy reconstruction. For example, acellular cadavericdermal matrix or crosslinked bovine or ovine dermal matrix or collagenhave been proposed. Acellular cadaveric dermal matrix has been usedextensively in procedures to extend the skin flap or reposition thebreast during reconstruction procedures. Depending upon the degree ofprocessing involved in the formation of these constructs, they graduallydegrade and sometimes resorb, and there is anecdotal evidence that theyare replaced with tissue. If degradation occurs too quickly, though,these tissue matrices are not replaced by scar tissue and the patientcan suffer recurrent ptosis and “bottoming out.” And if they do notresorb or resorb quite slowly, there is evidence in the literature thatthey cause increased seroma formation and infection compared to naturaltissue flaps. As with the synthetic mesh, these devices require fullopen procedures and do not alleviate scarring.

A further challenge for mastopexy surgeons is the evolving aesthetic ofthe upper pole. While traditional mastopexy techniques focused onelevation of the ptotic NAC and lower pole, there is contemporary demandfor a fuller look to the upper pole as well. Upper pole fullness,commonly seen following breast augmentation surgery with silicone andshaped implants, has become the paradigm to which some women aspire whenthinking about breast surgery. This aesthetic can motivate a mastopexypatient to seek a fuller upper pole in conjunction with a lifted lowerpole, a tightened inferior skin envelope and a repositioned NAC.

There remains a need in the art, therefore, for systems and methods ofmastopexy that provide the creation or restoration of an uplifted breastshape in a more durable way, as well as preventing post-operativepseudoptosis or recurrent ptosis without compromising the safety oraesthetic quality of the surgical outcome. Desirably, this solutionwould avoid the potential complications that can accompany the standardmastopexy procedure, permanent mesh placement and/or breast implantswhile providing long-lasting support for the reshaped breast.

For example, it would be desirable to deploy soft-tissue promotingresorbable scaffolds and supports or a long-lasting resorbable matrixthat is elastic enough to permit a natural dynamic appearance to thebreast via smaller incisions such that, once placed, they offer a goodbalance between scarring, tissue ingrowth and ultimate resorption. Thereis a further need in the art for mastopexy techniques that can provide afuller contour for the upper pole, to satisfy patient aesthetic demands.And, as previously mentioned, avoiding or minimizing scars remains adesirable goal.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed herein, in embodiments, are mastopexy systems, comprising aninsertion device, a suspension strut, and a lower pole support, whereinthe insertion device inserts the suspension strut into a breast, whereinthe suspension strut provides superior pole projection and furtherprovides attachments for the lower pole support, and wherein the lowerpole support provides uplift for the lower pole of the breast.

In embodiments, a method for preventing ptosis recurrence is disclosed.The method comprises removing some of the parenchymal load from the skinenvelope. In embodiments, the suspension strut comprises a biodegradablematerial. In embodiments, the lower pole support comprises abiodegradable material. In embodiments, the lower pole support comprisesa mesh material. In embodiments, the lower pole support is a unitaryconformable mesh or sheet. Also disclosed herein are kits comprising theaforesaid mastopexy system.

Further disclosed herein, in embodiments, are methods for elevating alower pole of a female breast, comprising providing an insertion device,a suspension strut, and a lower pole support, inserting the insertiondevice into the breast to define a channel in a superior pole of thefemale breast, delivering the suspension strut into the channel, therebyapplying a force to the superior pole to produce superior poleprojection, positioning the lower pole support beneath at least aportion of the lower pole, and attaching the lower pole support to thesuspension strut with sufficient tension to elevate the lower pole.

Further disclosed herein, in embodiments, are methods for creating asubcutaneous space between the skin and the parenchyma around the lowerpole of the breast; inserting a support in the lower pole of the breast;and elevating the lower pole of the breast using the support and byattaching straps of the support to an upper pole suspension strut and/oraffixation points in soft or hard tissue.

Further disclosed herein, in embodiments, are mastopexy implantscomprising a central body region and a plurality of straps extendingtherefrom. The implant can be inserted into a subcutaneous pocket in aninferior portion of the breast and secured at multiple points in thesoft and hard supportive tissue surrounding the parenchyma.

In embodiments, a mastopexy implant comprises a unitary flexiblebioabsorbable mesh. The mesh includes a substantially 2D configurationin the shape of a central region and a plurality of discrete straps orextension members extending therefrom, and the mesh further has a second3D dimensional configuration when deployed so as to secure the breast.When deployed the central region at least partially covers a lower poleof the breast and at least two of the extension members extendsuperiorly around and away from the NAC. Additionally, at least twoextension members extend inferiorly towards the IMF. The implant liftsthe lower pole of breast when affixed to the supportive tissue.

In embodiments, a mastopexy implant comprises sheet or mesh having aplurality of regions or sections. A first or upper region is disposedabove a second or lower region. The region is sized to substantiallyspan a portion of the lower pole of the breast and to not cover the NAC.The upper region comprises a plurality of upper attachment end portionsfor attaching to supportive tissue of the patient in the vicinity of asuperior side of the breast. The lower region comprises a plurality oflower attachment end portions for attaching to supportive tissue in thevicinity of the IMF so as to secure the breast in the second positionwhen attached to the supportive tissue. The upper region may have a widevariety of shapes including an elliptical, football, or other type ofshape. The lower region may comprise a similar or different shape, and asimilar or different size than the upper region.

Further disclosed herein, in embodiments, is a method and tools forelevating the lower pole of the breast comprising the steps of creatingat least one incision preferably in the lateral, medial, inframammaryand/or periareolar areas of the breast; creating a subcutaneous pocketwith a dissection or subscision tool; inserting and deploying the lowerpole support from the insertion device such that straps of the lowerpole support are placed over the breast parenchyma, unfurled, andanchored in multiple places to elevate the lower pole of the breast andremove load from the skin envelope to prevent recurrent ptosis.

Further disclosed herein, in embodiments, is a mastopexy systemcomprising an insertion tool containing a preloaded lower pole supportwith multiple straps.

Further disclosed herein, in embodiments, is a mastopexy systemcomprising a lower pole support with multiple straps wrapped around aninsertion tool

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1A shows an embodiment of an insertion device.

FIGS. 1B-1D illustrate various suspension struts.

FIGS. 2A-D illustrate schematically the passage of an embodiment of aninsertion device.

FIGS. 3A-C illustrate schematically the placement of an embodiment of asuspension strut.

FIGS. 4A-E illustrate schematically the positioning of an embodiment ofa lower pole support.

FIG. 4F illustrates a lower pole support transitioning from a collapsedconfiguration to a deployed shape.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate lower pole supports with multiple straps.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate lower pole supports having elliptical shapes.

FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate schematically various lower pole supportsdeployed in the breast to lift the lower pole and the NAC.

FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate various lower pole supports comprising a canoeshape.

FIGS. 9A-9F illustrate schematically a procedure for lifting the lowerpole and the NAC.

FIGS. 10A-10E illustrate schematically a procedure for creating asubcutaneous pocket for accommodating a lower pole support.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present invention is described in detail, it is to beunderstood that this invention is not limited to particular variationsset forth herein as various changes or modifications may be made to theinvention described and equivalents may be substituted without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention. As will be apparent to thoseof skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individualembodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components andfeatures which may be readily separated from or combined with thefeatures of any of the other several embodiments without departing fromthe scope or spirit of the present invention. In addition, manymodifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material,composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s) to theobjective(s), spirit or scope of the present invention. All suchmodifications are intended to be within the scope of the claims madeherein.

Methods recited herein may be carried out in any order of the recitedevents which is logically possible, as well as the recited order ofevents. Furthermore, where a range of values is provided, it isunderstood that every intervening value, between the upper and lowerlimit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in thatstated range is encompassed within the invention. Also, it iscontemplated that any optional feature of the inventive variationsdescribed may be set forth and claimed independently, or in combinationwith any one or more of the features described herein.

All existing subject matter mentioned herein (e.g., publications,patents, patent applications and hardware) is incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety except insofar as the subject matter may conflictwith that of the present invention (in which case what is present hereinshall prevail).

Disclosed herein are products, systems and methods for performingmastopexy surgery of a female breast. As used herein, the term“mastopexy” refers to a procedure that modifies and/or repositions aportion of the female breast, often for the purposes of maximizing theaesthetics of the breast, which repositioning may include a superiorrepositioning of a lower portion of the breast and/or a superiorrepositioning of a nipple-areolar complex (NAC).

Optionally, the mastopexy can include configuring the breast in anaesthetically desirable manner, for example by enhancing projection ofthe superior pole of the breast or the subareolar central mound of thebreast. Advantageously, the systems and methods disclosed herein useminimally invasive technologies in order to accomplish a mastopexy withreduced scarring as compared to traditional, open surgical procedures.

Mastopexy System

A system for performing a mastopexy in accordance with the presentdisclosure can comprise an insertion device, and a lower pole support.In another embodiment, a system comprises an insertion device, asuspension strut, and a lower pole support. In another embodiment, thesuspension strut and the insertion device are one and the same. A methodfor performing a mastopexy in accordance with the present disclosure caninclude the steps of creating a channel for placement of the suspensionstrut by manipulating the suspension strut through tissue, positioningthe suspension strut with the insertion device if two separate entities,and attaching the lower pole support to the suspension strut undersufficient tension to support the lower pole of the breast and projectthe upper pole of the breast. In embodiments, the systems disclosedherein can be prepared as kits, with the individual components arrangedfor ready access by a surgeon. Kits can be prepared with disposablecomponents or reusable components, and the access tube can be preloadedwith certain components. Kits can be prepared for sterilization, or theycan be pre-sterilized.

As shown in FIG. 1 a , an insertion device 100 comprises, inembodiments, an access tube 103 having an inner passageway through whichcan be passed other components. For example, a dissector 115 can bepassed through the access tube that will permit the surgeon to dissect aspace beneath the skin or within the breast tissue for the subsequentpassage of the suspension strut as described below. In embodiments, thedissector 115 can be configured for blunt dissection. In otherembodiments, the dissector 115 can comprise an electrocautery mechanismor other mechanism for hemostasis. In other embodiments, the dissector115 can comprise a liposuction component to be used itself fordissection or as an adjunct to other dissection mechanisms. Thedissector 115 can comprise a specialized tip 101 to facilitatedissection, and the tip 101 can comprise electrocautery or otherhemostatic devices. In embodiments the dissector 115 can be a rigiddevice, pre-formed in a preselected shape. In other embodiments, thedissector 115 can be flexible or formable, so that it can be configuredby the surgeon into a desirable shape.

The dissector 115 can cooperate with a suspension strut 111 to beinserted over or alongside the dissector 115 once the dissection hasbeen accomplished. The positioning of the suspension strut 111 over thedissector can be accomplished by a combination of advancing thesuspension strut 111 forward (using, for example, a pusher or plunger(not shown)) and/or retracting the access tube 103 and the dissector115.

In an embodiment, the suspension strut 111 is positioned within theaccess tube 103, over the dissector 115, during the entire process ofdissection, to be positioned using the insertion device 100 once thedissection is completed. In another embodiment, the dissector 115 withinthe access tube 103 is used to create the submammary or inframammarypocket, following which the dissector 115 is withdrawn and thesuspension strut 111 is positioned. In other embodiments, the suspensionstrut 111 can be passed over the dissector 115 after withdrawal of theaccess tube 103, with the dissector 115 acting as a guidewire forsuspension strut 111 positioning.

While the insertion process has been described using non-visualizeddissection, the insertion device 100 can also, optionally, includevisualization technologies, for example endoscopic visualization or alighted tip whose position can be followed while the insertion device100 is used.

In certain embodiments, the insertion device 100 is advanced through asingle incision (positioned medially or laterally, or otherwise at thesurgeon's discretion), with the suspension strut 111 being left behindafter an appropriate pocket is dissected. In other embodiments, theinsertion device 100 may be inserted through one incision for pocketdissection using blunt or electrocautery dissection, where a sharpenedtip 101 is then used to punch through from inside the breast to theoutside to create a second stab wound on the opposite side of thebreast. For example, if a medial access incision had been used, alateral or axillary stab wound could be created, or vice versa. Thistechnique would permit the creation of a second access site for furthermanipulation of the suspension strut 111 or for its affixation to thechest wall or breast tissue or other bony or soft tissue, or for itsattachment to the lower pole support as described below.

If two incisions are used (i.e., a proximal incision and a distal stabwound, as described above), a retrograde grasper (not shown) can bepassed through the second incision to grasp the suspension strut 111 orto grasp a suture or pullwire 109 attached thereto to pull thesuspension strut 111 into position within the dissected pocket.

In certain embodiments, a suture or pullwire 109 attached to thesuspension strut 111 can be used to affix the suspension strut 111, withthe suture or pullwire 109 being used to attach the distal end of thesuspension strut 111 to surrounding tissues or to an affixation anchor(not shown) that has been previously positioned in the tissues. In otherembodiments, the suture or pullwire 109 can be used to attach the distalend of the suspension strut 111 to the lower pole support mechanism thatis positioned as described below.

Also for affixation, a distal affixation mounting 105 and a proximalaffixation mounting 113 can be provided. As depicted in FIG. 1 a , theaffixation mountings 105 and 113 can be configured as holes or otherapertures through which sutures, staples, or other anchoring mechanismscan be placed, to allow attachment of the suspension strut 111 to softtissues, hard tissues, affixation anchors (not shown), and/or the lowerpole support mechanism, for example using sutures that are inserted bythe surgeon intraoperatively. Non-limiting examples of suspensiondevices are shown in FIGS. 1B-1D. FIG. 1B shows a strut 111 including aslot or slit 122 for affixation. The slit may receive a suture, tongue,tab, or another feature for interlocking with an anchor or the lowerpole support. FIG. 1D shows a strut 111 comprising a recess or groove132 for accepting an anchor, mount, or tab device for affixation. A widevariety of structures may be incorporated for holding, affixing, andconnecting to support tissue, anchors, and the lower pole devices.

In other embodiments, the affixation mountings 105 and 113 can beconfigured as snaps, clasps, anchors, fasteners, tacks, or the like, toallow direct or indirect attachment to soft tissues, hard tissues,tissue-mounted affixation anchors, and/or the lower pole supportmechanism. In an embodiment, for example, one or both of the affixationmountings 105 and 113 can be configured as an arrow-tip or flange thatcan snap-fit into a mating anchor on the lower pole support mechanism. Avariety of affixation mountings for attachment to tissues or to othercomponents of the mastopexy system are within the scope of the presentdisclosure and can be envisioned by practitioners of ordinary skill inthe art.

As shown in FIG. 1 a , the insertion device 100 can be provided with ahandle 117 that is graspable by a surgeon during the insertion process.A handle 117 can be any structure incorporated into or attached onto theproximal end of the insertion device 100 providing the surgeon with afirm surface for gripping and manipulating the insertion device 100.While the handle 117 illustrated in FIG. 1 a is shaped as two wingsperpendicular to the shaft of the access tube 103, a handle 117 can beshaped as a unilateral structure (e.g., a pistol grip), or as any otherstructure that permits secure grasp and manipulation. For example, ahandle can comprise a series of projections and indentations thatprovide the surgeon's hand with purchase on the proximal end of theinsertion device 100. A variety of handles 117 for the insertion device100 are within the scope of the present disclosure and can be envisionedby practitioners of ordinary skill in the art.

As shown in FIGS. 2 a-d , an insertion device 205 can be inserted intothe breast 200 to position the suspension strut 311 as shown in FIGS. 3a-c. With reference to FIG. 2 a , a female breast 200 is depicted havingan access incision 201 made through the skin in the parasternal region.In other embodiments, the access incision 201 can be placed in thelateral aspect of the breast 203, in the periareolar skin 207 as shownin FIG. 2 a , in the axilla (not shown) or in the inframammary foldbeneath the breast (not shown). The curvature of the insertion device205 is suitable for use through access incisions in the superolateral orsuperomedial skin of the breast, although in other embodiments aninsertion device 205 can be configured for use through an incision inother areas of the breast skin. For exemplary purposes, the mastopexysystem and method will be described and illustrated using theparasternal access incision 201, although it is understood that otheraccess incisions could be used as well.

As shown in FIG. 2 b , the insertion device 205 enters the accessincision 201, directed laterally. FIG. 2 c and FIG. 2 d show thetrajectory of the insertion device 205 as it tunnels a path below thebreast tissue, just superior to the pectoralis fascia, or within thebreast tissue. The trajectory 209 of the path and its inframammary orsubglandular positioning is determined by the surgeon based on pre- andintra-operative assessment of the patient. As shown in these Figures,the insertion device 205 follows the trajectory 209 determined by thesurgeon, using blunt dissection, electrocautery, sharp dissection,balloon dissection, or some combination of these or othertissue-displacing techniques (guided, e.g., by palpation, indirectvisualization or direct visualization) to create a pocket along thetrajectory 209 that will house the suspension strut, as shown below inmore detail. In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 2 b , the insertiondevice 205 can act as a guide for the insertion of the suspension strut,as described below.

It is understood that the insertion device 205 can include otherfeatures, for example, a visualization device (not shown) for providinga direct image of the procedures taking place. In embodiments, theinsertion device 205 can include other trackers, such as a light visibleexternally, or an electromagnetic tag, or the like, that allowsdetermination of the position of the tip of the insertion device 205using visualization or using positioning identification technologies. Inembodiments, the insertion device 205 can include a balloon or otherdissecting mechanism to permit the dissection of the pocket or tissuepath for the suspension strut.

In embodiments, the percutaneous access incision 201 can be created as astab wound by a needle, followed by a guidewire that allows placement ofthe insertion device 205. In an exemplary embodiment, the insertiondevice 205 can be directed along a predetermined trajectory 209 with theassistance of balloon dissection or hydrodissection. In an exemplaryembodiment, the dissection process can be directly observed, for exampleby a fiberoptic visualizing scope.

In embodiments, a suspension strut 311 can be fabricated from a numberof biodegradable materials. Optionally, the suspension strut 311 caninclude one or more pharmacologically active agents capable of impartinglocal or systemic effects. As used herein, the term “biodegradable”refers to a material that, when placed in a human or animal body, ishydrolytically labile, oxidatively labile, susceptible to enymaticactivity, or the like (collectively, “biodegrading actions”), where sucha biodegrading action leads to the partial or complete breakdown of thematerial within the human body. Materials, e.g., polymers, that arebiodegradable have variable resorption times following their breakdown,depending on local and systemic factors within the body and depending oncharacteristics of the breakdown product like their size and chemicalcomposition.

Materials for use by these systems and methods are, desirably,biocompatible. As used herein, the term “biocompatible” refers to amaterial that is compatible with living tissue or a living system sothat it is acceptable for use in a human or animal body. A biocompatiblematerial, for example a biocompatible polymer, does not causephysiological harm to the body to a significant or unacceptable extent.For example, a biocompatible material may be non-toxic, or otherwise notinjurious to the living tissue or system, or it may not causesignificant immunological or inflammatory response by the host.

A number of biodegradable materials can be useful, either as singleagents or in combinations, for fabricating the suspension strut 211. Inselecting polymeric materials for the suspension strut 211, the glasstransition temperature (Tg) may be considered, as well as thecompatibility of the material with pharmacological agents that may beoptionally added to it. In embodiments, a polymer will be selected forthe suspension strut 211 that is readily fabricated into the desiredshape. For example, polymers with a sufficient difference between theirmelting temperature and decomposition temperature can be molded orextruded into tubular or cylindrical shapes.

A number of biodegradable polymers suitable for use in accordance withthese systems and methods will be familiar to those of ordinary skill inthe art. Processing methods and coating methods for those polymers are,similarly, familiar. As examples, polymers such as the following can beused: polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid and copolymers and mixturesthereof such as poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), poly(D,L-lactide) (PLA),polyglycolic acid or polyglycolide (PGA), poly(L-lactide-co-D,L-lactide)(PLLA/PLA), poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLLA/PGA), poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLA/PGA), poly(glycolide-co-trimethylenecarbonate) (PGA/PTMC), poly(D,L-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLA/PCL) andpoly(glycolide-co-caprolactone) (PGA/PCL); polyhydroxyalkanoates,poly(oxa)esters, polyethylene oxide (PEO), polydioxanone (PDS),polypropylene fumarate, poly(ethyl glutamate-co-glutamic acid),poly(tert-butyloxy-carbonylmethyl glutamate), polycaprolactone (PCL),polycaprolactone co-butylacrylate, polyhydroxybutyrate (PH BT) andcopolymers of polyhydroxybutyrate, poly(phosphazene), poly(phosphateester), poly(amino acid), polydepsipeptides, maleic anhydridecopolymers, polyiminocarbonates, poly[(97.5% dimethyl-trimethylenecarbonate)-co-(2.5% trimethylene carbonate)], poly(orthoesters),tyrosine-derived polyarylates, tyrosine-derived polycarbonates,tyrosine-derived polyiminocarbonates, tyrosine-derived polyphosphonates,polyethylene oxide, polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyalkylene oxides(PAO), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, polysaccharides such as hyaluronicacid, chitosan and regenerate cellulose, and proteins such as gelatinand collagen, and mixtures and copolymers thereof, among others as wellas PEG derivatives or blends of any of the foregoing. Desirably,polymeric materials can be selected for these systems and methods thathave good strength retention, such as polydioxanone, silk-based polymersand copolymers, poly4-hydroxybutyrates, and the like. Suitablebiocompatible polymers can be used alone or in blends with otherbiocompatible materials.

Desirably, the material selected for the suspension strut will beconformable (either before or after insertion into the body) into ashape permitting superior pole projection. Moreover, the materialselected for the suspension strut will desirably have sufficientstrength and durability to sustain the projection of the superior pole.Without being bound by theory it is anticipated, in embodiments, thatthe presence of a short-term inflammatory response and collagendeposition, all attributable to a stimulatory effect accompanying thebiodegradability process for the suspension strut can provide additionalfullness and long-term support.

The suspension strut 311 can be shaped as a cylindrical structure, as aribbon, or as any other shape that will flex in response to the weightprovided by the lower pole support, as described below, while impartingthe desired shape to the upper pole of the breast. In embodiments, thesuspension strut 311 comprises more than one shape, for example acentral flat portion and cylindrical or tapered side portions, and thesuspension strut 311 may comprise more than one material having specificproperties.

As shown in FIG. 3 a , the suspension strut 311 can be passed through ahollow passageway within the insertion device 305 as depicted.Alternatively, the insertion device 305 can be used like a guidewire,with the suspension strut 311 passed over it (not shown). As shown inFIGS. 3 a-3 c , a single access incision 301 can be used for the entryof the insertion device. In these Figures, the access incision 301 isshown on the medial or parasternal aspect of the breast. It isunderstood that the access incision 301 can be positioned on the lateralaspect of the breast, on the chest wall, in the axilla, or in otherregions (inframammary fold, periareolar, etc.) familiar to those ofordinary skill in the art. An additional access incision (not shown) canbe used in any of these locations to assist in placement or positioningof the suspension strut 311.

When the suspension strut 311 has been appropriately positioned, asshown in FIG. 3 b , the insertion device 305 can be removed along itspath of entry. FIG. 3 c shows the suspension strut 311 in positionwithin the breast. In patients where increased upper pole fullness isdesired, the suspension strut 311 can be positioned so that it projectsanteriorly rather than lying beneath the breast tissue on the pectoralfascia. The positioning of the suspension strut 311 is typicallydetermined by the surgeon planning and executing the procedure.Achieving anterior projection for the suspension strut 311 may requiredissection through the breast tissue when the suspension strut isinitially placed.

Lower Pole Support

FIGS. 4 a-e show, schematically, certain steps of a procedure forpositioning a lower pole support 413 in combination with other steps ofthe mastopexy. As shown in FIG. 4 a , in embodiments, a perioareolarincision 415 can be made, permitting access to the lower pole of thebreast. Through this incision, dissection can be carried out, forexample with an electrocautery device 403 to produce an area ofsubcutaneous dissection 409. FIG. 4 a shows, in an embodiment, theextent of subcutaneous dissection 409 in an anterior view, and FIG. 4 bshows, in an embodiment, the extent of the subcutaneous dissection 409in a lateral view. However, as will be discussed in more detail herein,additional dissection can be carried out to create different shapes ofpockets including deep pockets and channels for accommodating elongateextension members, bands, ribbons, and straps of the lower pole support.In embodiments, dissecting may be carried out to extend the pocket orchannel to the chest wall (i.e., proximal of, or posterior to, thebreast parenchyma). In embodiments, dissection may be carried out toextend channels upward in a radial manner toward the chest wall medialand lateral to the breast.

FIG. 4 b also shows, schematically, the positioning of a suspensionstrut 411 to effect increased anterior projection, although otherpositions for the suspension strut 411 are also in accordance with thisdisclosure (i.e., a flatter position with less anterior projection). Theamount of anterior projection for the suspension strut 411 can bedetermined at the time of surgery in accordance with the aestheticdesires of the patient, as discussed preoperatively. While the depictedembodiment shows the suspension strut 411 in a subcutaneous position,the suspension strut 411 can also be positioned within the breastparenchyma or below the breast parenchyma, as described previously.

As shown in FIGS. 4 c and 4 d , a lower pole support 413′ can bepositioned within the breast so that it occupies some or all of thesubcutaneous dissection area shown in the preceding FIGS. 4 a and 4 b .Also as shown in FIGS. 4 c and 4 d , the lower pole support can beinserted or repositioned, or fixed through the periareolar, medial, orlateral incisions (e.g., 401, 415). In embodiments, a positioning tool417 can insert the lower pole support 413′ within the dissected area viathe lateral or medial incisions and can further direct the lower polesupport 413 into its deployed shape 413″, as shown schematically in FIG.4 e . In an embodiment, the lower pole support 413 can be flexible andcapable of being rolled cylindrically within a hollow positioning tool417. In an embodiment, the lower pole support 413 can be rolled aroundthe outside of a positioning tool.

Deployment of the lower pole support 413 takes place in part bywithdrawing the positioning tool 417 and leaving the lower pole support413 behind. In certain embodiments where a periareolar incision is usedfor the insertion of the positioning tool 417, only a part (e.g., alateral part) of the lower pole support 413 may be positioned by usingthe tool, with a portion of the lower pole support 413 (e.g., the medialpart) remaining outside the incision and requiring subsequent manualpositioning.

In another practice, the incision used to position the suspension strut411 can be used to position the lower pole support 413 after thesubcutaneous dissection 409 has been accomplished in the lower pole. Thepositioning tool 417 can access the entire subcutaneous dissection 409through the initial incision 401 and can deploy the lower pole support413 from distal to proximal within the subcutaneous dissection space409. This practice minimizes exposure of the lower pole support 413 tothe skin itself, potentially reducing the possibility of contamination.In those practices where two incisions have been used for placement ofthe suspension strut 411, the two incisions can be used for moreaccurate positioning of the lower pole support 413.

In embodiments, it is understood that an access incision can bepositioned on the lateral aspect of the breast, on the chest wall, inthe axilla, or in other regions (inframammary fold, periareolar, etc.)familiar to those of ordinary skill in the art. An additional accessincision (not shown) can be used in any of these locations to assist inplacement or positioning of the lower pole support. In embodiments, thepositioning tool can be inserted through the lateral incision 401proceeding all the way across the lower pole and positioned by manualguidance using forceps or the like through a second medial incision (notshown) in the breast. In embodiments, the distal positioning of thelower pole support 413 may be accompanied by an affixation, either tothe patient's hard or soft tissues or to the suspension strut 411, orboth. In embodiments, the suspension strut 411 is formed with a proximaland/or distal affixation mounting that includes a region for attaching,affixing or seating the lower pole support 413. For example, variousmounting structures are shown in the struts depicted in FIGS. 1A-ID,described above.

In embodiments, the suspension strut 411 is equipped with a suture, aclip, a fastener or other attachment mechanism at each of its ends toallow the affixation of the lower pole support thereto. In embodimentswhere two incisions have been used for the placement of the suspensionstrut 411, these incisions can be used to facilitate the attachment ofthe suspension strut 411 to the lower pole support 413, for example byallowing the tying of a suture to attach these two components to eachother. Additionally, in embodiments, two or more portions of the lowerpole support can be affixed to the soft or hard tissue via a clip,suture, or anchor through the two incisions medial and lateral.

In embodiments, the distal positioning of the lower pole support 413 isaccompanied by an affixation, either to the patient's hard or softtissues or to the suspension strut 411, or both. In embodiments, thesuspension strut 411 is formed with a proximal and/or distal affixationmounting that includes a region for attaching, affixing or seating thelower pole support 413. In embodiments, the suspension strut 411 isequipped with a suture, a clip, a fastener or other attachment mechanismat each of its ends to allow the affixation of the lower pole supportthereto. In embodiments where two incisions have been used for theplacement of the suspension strut 411, these incisions can be used tofacilitate the attachment of the suspension strut 411 to the lower polesupport 413, for example by allowing the tying of a suture to attachthese two components to each other.

Optionally, a light source may be inserted within the subcutaneousdissection 409 along with other appropriate optics to permit directvisualization of the attachment of suspension strut 411 to lower polesupport 413.

In embodiments, the lower pole support can be self-deploying orself-configuring. For example the lower pole support may be comprised ofshape-memory materials or from other plastic or metallic materials thatmaintain a predetermined shape upon the release of a constraining force.In embodiments, the lower pole support 413 can be inserted, positionedand deployed without a positioning tool 417, using standard surgicalinstruments. In embodiments, the lower pole support 413 iscrescent-shaped. In other embodiments, the lower pole support 413 isrectangular or any other shape. The lower pole support 413 may bedeployed only across the central region of the lower pole to providesupport over a relatively small area within the breast, or it can occupya wider area from the medial breast to the lateral breast. In anembodiment, the lower pole support 413 can act as an “internalbrassiere,” elevating and shaping the breast in an aestheticallydesirable way.

FIG. 4 f shows a crescent-shaped lower pole support transitioning from afirst low profile or rolled configuration to a deployed shape. Inparticular, lower pole support 413′ is shown in a rolled or collapsedconfiguration. Lower pole support 413″ illustrates an intermediateconfiguration. Lower pole support 413′″ illustrates a final deployedshape or configuration. The lower pole support 413 in FIG. 4 f is shownwith the environment removed for clarity. Additionally, it is to beunderstood that the shapes and configurations may differ than theembodiment shown in FIG. 4 f . The shapes may vary widely and theinvention is only to be limited to that recited in the appended claims.

FIG. 5A illustrates another lower pole support 500 for lifting orsecuring breast tissue. The support 500 is shown in an unrolled state,e.g., in an intermediate state after manufacture yet prior to beingloaded into the insertion device as described above.

The support 500 is shown having a roughly X-shape. Four straps or bands510 a,b,c,d extend from a central body portion. Although four straps orbands 510 are shown in the support 500 of FIG. 5A, the number of strapsmay vary and in embodiments, the support may include 2, 3, 4, 5, or morestraps and as many tissue affixation points. Support 500 is shown havinga vertical axis of symmetry 516. Each side of the vertical axis ofsymmetry 516 consists of a diagonally downward slanted leg 510 c,d and aconcave upward arm 510 a,b extending from a body. The body serves tosupport the lower pole when deployed and preferably has a size touniformly and aesthetically shape the breast. The area of the centralbody region may vary and range from, for example, 1 to 15 sq. cm.

The halves separated by the horizontal axis 520, however, differ. Thelarger superior half has longer straps 510 a, 510 b than lower straps510 c, 510 d. As will be described in more detail below, the longerstraps serve to cover more breast volume above than below. The legs 510c,d are shorter than the arms.

Exemplary lengths of the legs range from about 1 to 15 cm and preferablyare about 10 cm. Exemplary lengths of the arms may vary and range fromabout 3 to 30 cm and preferably are about 16 cm.

In some embodiments, the ratio of leg to arm length is 2:1.

The width of the legs range from about 0.25 to 5 cm and preferably areabout 0.5 cm. The width of the arms may also vary and range from about0.25 to 5 cm and preferably are about 0.5 cm. In some embodiments, thebands have a constant width. In other embodiments, the bands have awidth that varies. The bands may comprise end portions that arestraight, taper, or that terminate at a point.

It is to be understood that although the band and strap shape may varywidely, by “band” or “strap” it is meant to exclude the shape of asuture. The band and straps of the lower pole support have a differentaspect ratio than that of a suture. For example, an exemplary aspectratio (width/thickness) ranges from 5/1 to 500/1. Additionally, inembodiments, the band and straps may be integral with the body of thesupport. The support may consist of one unitary structure.

In embodiments, the support 500 and straps 510 are flexible,conformable, and thin. The support 500 may be made from variousmaterials and may comprise materials as described herein in connectionwith other embodiments of the invention. In one embodiment, the support500 comprises a 2-dimensional poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) polymer meshconstruct. An example of a suitable mesh is the TephaFlex™ manufacturedby Tepha Inc., Lexington, MA. However, the invention is not so limited.The support may comprise other materials and is only to be limited asrecited in the appended claims.

Without to being bound to theory, the straps, bands, or ribbons serve tomore evenly distribute force loads across the lower pole support (andacross multiple affixation points) so as to reduce the load and failureat any one location point. Additionally the ribbons do not garrote thetissue as sutures may do under certain circumstances. These areadvantages over standard breast lift devices which use sutures tosupport the loads.

Additionally, in the support 500 shown in FIG. 5A, the suspension arms510 a, 510 b are shown having a curvature. In particular, the arms orstraps are shown being concave upwards from the vertical axis ofsymmetry 516. However, the curvature and shape of the arms may varywidely. The arms and leg members may be straight or curved.

FIG. 5B shows another support 504 for lifting a breast tissue. Support504 is shown in an undeployed or unrolled state with the environmentremoved for clarity. The support 504 is similar to the support 500described above except that the arms 510 e,f are convex downwardrelative to the vertical axis of symmetry 518.

The length of the arms may vary and range from about 5 to 30 cm andpreferably are about 18 cm. The length of the legs and the widths may besimilar to that described above in connection with support 500 of FIG. 5a.

FIG. 6A illustrates another lower pole support. Support 600 includes anupper region 620 having an elliptical shape and a lower region 630having a similar shape to the upper region, albeit a different size. Thedual elliptical (or football) support 600 shown in FIG. 6A includes fourends 610 a, b, c, d. The ends or end portions of the two ellipses may beused as anchoring points to affix the support to the chest wall or othersupportive tissue as will be described in more detail below.

The top ellipse 620 is shown having a similar or slightly largerfootprint or property than that of lower ellipse 630. However, theshapes may vary widely. The sizes may be substantially different asshown in FIG. 6B where upper ellipse 640 is much greater than lowerellipse 650. The figures are intended only as examples, and the upperfootprint or property of the breast support device 600 may be larger,equal, or smaller than the lower footprint or property.

Additionally, the shapes themselves may be different or similar. Forexample, an upper ellipse may be stacked or otherwise combined with alower crescent, half moon, semi-circle, rectangle, or any other shapecontemplated herein. Additionally, one or more of the regions maycomprise one or more straps or bands as described above in connectionwith FIGS. 5A-5B.

The specific dimensions of the support may vary. Exemplary non-limitinglengths (Lmain) for the larger ellipse 620 along its long or main axisranges from 16 to 36 and perhaps about 25 cm. The larger ellipse 620 mayhave a height dimension (Hl) ranging from 4 to 12 and in one embodimentis about 7 cm.

The smaller ellipse 630 is preferably centered relative to the topellipse and has a long axis ranging from 12 to 25 and perhaps about 17cm. The smaller ellipse 630 may have a height dimension (Hs) rangingfrom 2 to 10 and in one embodiment is about 5 cm. Additionally, the topcrescent may be approximately 2 times the width of the bottom shape.

The materials of the support shown in FIGS. 6A-6B may be similar to thematerials and compositions of the mesh and supports described herein.

FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 7C illustrate various tissue supports 700, 730, and760 respectively deployed in the breast 702 of a patient 706, serving tolift the lower pole of breast and the NAC 704 to a target position. Theskin of the breast is not shown for clarity of illustrating thepositioning and shapes of the supports. As will be discussed in moredetail below, the supports are positioned through one or more incisionsand into a subcutaneous pocket.

With reference to FIG. 7A, support 700 includes a central body portion703 and four straps including two upper straps 714 and two lower straps708 extending from the body portion. The lower straps 708 aremanipulated inferiorly and affixed to supportive tissue on the chestwall. Sutures 712 may be used affix the straps to the chest wall.

Upper straps 714 are manipulated across the breast parenchyma and fixedto the chest wall at locations 716. The support 700 anchors the lowerpole of the breast parenchyma in a target position.

With reference to FIG. 7B, a support 730 is shown in a deployed stateand includes substantially the same features as that described inconnection with the support 700 of FIG. 7A except that the upper armsmembers 732 are different than the upper straps 714. In particular, theupper arm members 732 shown in FIG. 7B have a convex curvature withrespect to a vertical axis of symmetry. The arm members 732 curveslightly outward.

Without being bound to theory, this difference in shape in the straps isdesirable in certain cases and for adjusting or designing certain shapedlifts. The convex curvature tends to place forces at a more superiorlocation of the breast, thereby providing a different appearance orshape to the breast. Adjusting the degree of curvature can adjust theshape or lift.

With reference to FIG. 7C, support 760 is shown in a deployed state andincludes a smaller elliptical region 762 fixed to the chest wall, and alarger elliptical region 764 enveloping the breast parenchyma and fixedat its end portions 766 or corners, thereby creating a sling to supportthe breast 702 in a lifted position.

FIG. 8A shows another support 800 having a 3D shape. In particular, thesupport 800 shown in FIG. 8 a includes a canoe-like body including walls802, 806 and a cavity 804 formed therein. The cavity 804 serves toaccommodate the breast parenchyma when deployed.

An exemplary non limiting length is about 22 cm, and having aflexibility or elasticity to be extended 10% lengthwise. Exemplary,non-limiting, curvatures for the two radii shown in FIG. 8A are about5.5 cm and 4.5 cm with extensibility of 50-100%.

The support may comprise a unitary sheet or mesh made of polymer such asthat described herein which is cut and folded into the 3D shape orstructure. An exemplary pore size is preferably about 1 mm.

The support 800 is affixed to the chest wall or other supportive tissueof the patient at two points to provide soft tissue support in thebreast. Ends 808,810 are affixed to the patient points on the chestwall. In embodiments, a suture, hook, tack, or other anchoring mechanismmay be attached to the end portions for anchoring or affixing the endportions to the supportive tissue.

FIG. 8B illustrates, for example, a support 830 comprising rings 832 forattaching to supportive tissue or another fixture device as the case maybe. FIG. 8C illustrates, for example, a support 850 comprising sutures856 for attaching to supportive tissue or another fixture device as thecase may be. However, the invention is not so limited and a wide varietyof means may be incorporated to attach the ends, end portions, straps orsupports to the supportive tissue. Also, by “supportive tissue” it ismeant to include without limitation tissue of chest wall includingsubglandular, fascial, bony, cartilaginous, and muscular tissues.

Upon attachment to the supportive tissue and/or to a suspension strut asdescribed above, the lower pole support is positioned to providesufficient elevating force to the breast to relieve the prediagnosedptosis in such a manner as to also relieve force on the incision sitesand skin of the lower pole. In an embodiment, the lower pole support canbe temporarily affixed to the supportive tissue and/or suspension strut,with the tension on the system being adjusted intraoperatively. It maybe desirable to adjust the patient's position to a sitting or uprightposition to optimize the tension on the system and the subsequentcorrection of the breast ptosis.

The lower pole support (e.g., without limitation support 413, 500, 600,700, 800, etc.) can be configured as a sheet, a solid sheet, or as adiscontinuous layer such as a mesh. Non-limiting examples of a supportinclude a mesh, a set of strips, a fabric, a woven construct, a knittedconstruct, a braided construct, a porous scaffold, a nanospun,electrospun, or melt-blown construct.

In embodiments, the lower pole support can be made from the samematerials (e.g., the biodegradable polymeric materials) described asusable for the suspension strut. Suitable tissue derived productsinclude allograft, autograft, xenograft, collagen, and the like. Alsoincluded are compositions in which two or more naturally derived andsynthetic materials are used to form a composite structure to impartoptimal resorption characteristics and strength retention.

In embodiments, the lower pole support can comprise biocompatiblemetals. In embodiments, the lower pole support can be made from acomposite of materials described above.

In embodiments, the lower pole support can comprise biodegradable and/orresorbable materials. Preferably, such a material would be selected sothat it provides adequate tensile strength to support the breast andlengthen the time over which the corrected lift remains stable, and sothat the corrected position is stabilized by the formation of a layer ofcollagen or scar tissue concomitant with the lower pole support losingstrength.

Preferred materials include poly-4-hydroxybutyrate and polydioxanone,silk-based fibers and other biodegradable polymers. Other materials thatmay be suitable if structured appropriately include allograft orxenograft materials or biodegradable polymers with shorter strengthretention times. Similarly, the preferred materials for the suspensionstrut are biodegradable materials with long strength retention times asdescribed above. In embodiments, the components of the mastopexy systemdisclosed herein are substantially biodegradable and/or resorbable, sothat a durable breast lift can be provided without leaving permanentforeign bodies in the breast region. Such a biodegradable/resorbablesystem would provide sufficient and long-lasting tensile strength toallow the repositioned breast tissues to remain in place while tissueremodeling and collagen deposition around the resorbing implant occurs,with the long-term lifted shape of the breast being maintained by newlygenerated durable fibrous tissue.

Mastopexy Procedure

FIGS. 9A-9F illustrate steps of a mastopexy procedure. In particular,FIGS. 9A-9F show installation of tissue support 900 into a breast. Thesupport lifts the lower pole of the breast from a first position 902′ toa target position 902″.

Initially, and with reference to FIG. 9A, one or more upper incisions910 a,b are created at the lateral and medial portions of the breast andlower incisions 910 c,d are created proximal to the inframammary fold,slightly below the lower border of the NAC 912. Additionally, a crescentshaped portion of skin 908 is removed from above the NAC 912.

FIG. 9B illustrates a step of creating a subcutaneous pocket 920 using adissector tool 922 inserted through the NAC incision. Dissection isperformed to create a preferably triangular shaped pocket in thesuperficial, inferior half of the breast, with one side of the trianglelying tangent to the inferior-most portion of the NAC 912. The pocket920 serves to accommodate support 900.

In embodiments, the pocket may be defined or characterized as comprisinga number of regions including a frontal or more anteriorly-disposed mainregion as well as a plurality deep regions extending to points on, or inclose vicinity to, the chest wall. In embodiments, two deeper regions orpockets are created superior to the NAC in the same subcutaneous planeas the main region for placement of upper straps 904. Similarly, inembodiments, two deeper regions or pockets are preferably createdinferior to the NAC for placement of lower straps 906.

FIG. 9C illustrates advancing an insertion device 930 into thesubcutaneous pocket at the lateral incision 910 a and fed along the sideof the pocket tangent to the NAC, to the medial incision 910 b. Thedirection is indicated by reference numeral F1 in FIG. 9 c . Theinsertion device is preloaded with the lower pole support 900. The lowerpole support 900 depicted in FIGS. 9 a-9 f includes four suspension arms(each arm being pre-strung with two lines of suture, and one suture atthe end of each superior “arm”). The lower pole support is folded(preferably in half) and then rolled up and placed into the insertiondevice. The suture lines 940 may protrude out of the distal end of theinsertion device.

FIG. 9D illustrates deploying the lower pole support 900. Deployment maybe carried out by retracting the insertion device 930 with a force T1while grasping suture lines 940 and applying a tension or force to thesutures 940 in the direction indicated by T2. The insertion device 930is removed horizontally, deploying the lower pole support 900 into thesubcutaneous pocket 920.

FIG. 9E illustrates manipulating or positioning the lower pole support.In particular, by holding the lines of suture, the straps 904, 906 canbe manipulated to optimize the placement of the lower pole straps. Theoption of sitting the patient up to better align the breast placement isalso available. The straps are placed through the deep pockets. Ifdesired, additional small incisions may be made to provide improvedaccess for manipulation of the support.

FIG. 9 f illustrates the breast lifted from a first position 902′ to thetarget position 902″. The breast may be manipulated from the firstposition to the target position by adjusting the breast directly by handor manipulating the straps or portions of the lower pole support. Oncethe breast is in the target position, the straps are affixed. Examplesof affixation techniques are described above and include, for example,tacking the straps to the supportive tissue, suturing the straps to thesupportive tissue, or attaching the straps to anchors fixed to thesupportive tissue.

In some embodiments, a periareolar incision can also be used to properlyplace the support inferiorly around the lower pole of the breastparenchyma. An inframammary incision is made and wire subscision may beused to expand the inferior point of the triangle pocket, so that thepocket is more square shaped. Additionally, wire subscision orelectrocautery may be used again to dissect deep to the breast, to twopoints on the chest wall that are inferior and medial to the initial twofixation points. Absorbable tacks may be used to fix the “legs” of thesupport to the same plane of the chest wall where the “arm” fixationexists.

Although the method described above in connection with FIGS. 9 a-9 fdescribes implanting one type of lower pole support, it is to beunderstood that the invention is not so limited. And other types oflower pole supports may be implanted in methods of the presentinvention.

Additionally, the step of dissecting may be performed variouslyincluding without limitation blunt dissection, electrocautery, or wiresubscision.

Electrocautery or blunt dissection may be carried out through thevarious incisions described above. The instrument is inserted throughthe incision and the pocket is created by applying force or energy or acombination of both.

An example of wire subscision is illustrated in FIGS. 10 a-10 e . Withreference to FIG. 10 a , a plurality of incisions are made as describedabove. Preferably two medial and two lateral incisions are made. Next,as illustrated in FIGS. 10 b-10 d , a plurality of contiguous pockets1010, 1012, 1014 are created. Preferably the pockets are triangularshaped, and sequentially formed with a needle wire member 1020. Theneedle is manipulated from under the skin to form a subcutaneoustriangular shaped pocket and then withdrawn, thereby separating the skinfrom the tissue to form the respective pocket.

FIG. 10 e illustrates an example of a contiguous triangular shapedpocket 1022 for accommodating various lower pole supports describedabove.

EQUIVALENTS

While specific embodiments of the subject invention have been discussed,the above specification is illustrative and not restrictive. Manyvariations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in theart upon review of this specification. Unless otherwise indicated, allnumbers expressing quantities or properties of components or methodsused in the specification and claims are to be understood as beingmodified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unlessindicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth herein areapproximations that can vary depending upon the desired propertiessought to be obtained by the present invention.

While this invention has been particularly shown and described withreferences to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may bemade therein without departing from the scope of the inventionencompassed by the appended claims.

1-21. (canceled)
 22. A method for elevating a lower pole of a breast,comprising: providing a lower pole support and a positioning tool,loading a tubular distal section of the positioning tool with the lowerpole support, delivering at least a portion of the lower pole supportthrough an access incision with the positioning tool, and anchoring thelower pole support around breast parenchyma to retain the breast inplace.
 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising deploying thelower pole support by withdrawing the positioning tool through theaccess incision.
 24. The method of claim 22, further comprisingpositioning the lower pole support with the positioning tool within abody pocket formed by the access incision.
 25. The method of claim 22,further comprising delivering the lower pole support through aperiareolar incision.
 26. The method of claim 22, wherein the lower polesupport has at least of the following properties: (a) athree-dimensional shape; (b) a two-dimensional shape; (c) formed of amesh material; (d) bioabsorbable; and (e) formed in a canoe shape. 27.The method of claim 22, further comprising attaching a plurality ofstraps extending from the lower pole support to an upper pole suspensionstrut.
 28. The method of claim 22, further comprising attaching aplurality of straps extending from the lower pole support to the breastparenchyma.
 29. The method of claim 22, further comprising loading thelower pole support within the tubular distal section of the positioningtool.
 30. The method of claim 22, further comprising loading the lowerpole support around the tubular distal section of the positioning tool.31. The method of claim 28, further comprising rolling the plurality ofstraps around the tubular distal section of the positioning tool.
 32. Aminimally invasive method for placing a device to lift a breast and NACof a patient from a first position to a second position comprising:making a first incision in a side of the breast; creating a subcutaneousbody pocket in an inferior portion of the breast; advancing a lower polesupport positioning tool though the first incision and into the bodypocket; deploying a lower pole support in the body pocket; manipulatingthe body of the lower pole support to span the body pocket; manipulatingtissue of the breast and the NAC to the second position; and attachingthe lower pole support to supportive tissue to secure the breast and theNAC in the second position.
 33. The method of claim 32, furthercomprising creating a second incision on the side of the breast oppositeto the first incision; and wherein the deploying step comprisesdeploying a lower pole support in the body pocket from the lower polesupport positioning tool, the lower pole support comprising a body andplurality of upper straps and a plurality of lower straps.
 34. Themethod of claim 33, further comprising creating a third incision and afourth incision near medial and lateral ends of an inframammary fold ofthe breast respectively and wherein the lower straps are manipulatedthrough the third incision and fourth incision.
 35. The method of claim33, wherein the first incision is made on a lateral side of the breastand the second incision is made on the medial side of the breast, andthe lower support positioning tool is inserted into the body pocket atthe lateral incision and extended to the vicinity of the medialincision.
 36. The method of claim 35, wherein at least one of the upperstraps is grasped through the medial incision and the lower polepositioning tool is withdrawn from the lateral incision, therebydeploying the lower pole support.
 37. The method of claim 36, furthercomprising creating at least one of a periareolar incision to aid inadjusting and fixing the lower pole support.
 38. The method of claim 33,wherein attaching the lower pole support comprises attaching theplurality of upper and lower straps comprises deploying tacks throughthe straps and into the supportive tissue.
 39. The method of claim 33,wherein attaching the lower pole support comprises attaching the strapsis performed by suturing the straps to anchors embedded in the supporttissue.
 40. The method of claim 32, wherein the step of creating thesubcutaneous body pocket is performed by wire subscision through atleast one incision.
 41. The method of claim 40, wherein the step ofcreating the subcutaneous body pocket comprises forming at least onetriangular shaped pocket.
 42. The method of claim 32, wherein the stepof creating the subcutaneous body pocket is performed usingelectrocautery.
 43. The method of claim 42, further comprising creatinga NAC incision above the NAC and wherein the electrocautery is performedthrough the NAC incision.
 44. The method of claim 33, wherein attachingthe lower pole support comprises attaching the straps to the supportivetissue comprises attaching the straps to a breast supportive tissueselected from the group consisting of subglandular, fascial, andmuscular tissue.
 45. The method of claim 33, wherein attaching the lowerpole support comprises attaching the straps to the supportive tissue isperformed via the incisions.
 46. The method of claim 33, whereinattaching the lower pole support comprises attaching the straps to thesupportive tissue comprises attaching the straps to a chest wall using aresorbable fastener.
 47. The method of claim 33, wherein attaching thelower pole support comprises attaching the lower straps is performedprior to attaching the upper straps.
 48. The method of claim 32, whereinthe step of deploying the lower pole support comprises deploying a mesh.49. The method of claim 48, wherein the step of manipulating the breastand NAC to the second position is performed by manipulating the mesh.50. The method of claim 32, further comprising removing skin above theNAC to form the second position for the NAC.
 51. The method of claim 33,further comprising creating at least one channel pocket extending fromthe body pocket to the support tissue, and wherein manipulating theupper straps comprises manipulating at least one upper strap through thechannel pocket to the support tissue.
 52. The method of claim 51,wherein the body pocket is contiguous with the at least one channelpocket.